0:00The council discussed the upcoming construction project on Parker Road, set to begin on the 18th, with an expected duration of four weeks. Residents have voiced concerns about needing assistance while an elevator is out of service during construction. Potential delays due to inclement weather and the upcoming Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays were acknowledged.

City Engineer Jason Fite provided an in-depth look at the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), highlighting that only two major reconstruction projects remain, following extensive work in recent years. These projects, slated for Second Street and North Street, are estimated to cost between $2.0 million and $2.6 million each. Fite emphasized the importance of regular maintenance, including overlays and crack sealing, to prevent further deterioration of the city’s roads. The council also addressed concerns about storm sewer systems, confirming that upgrades would be included in the reconstruction projects.

The state of Front Street, a county road, sparked a discussion among council members. They expressed concerns about its current condition and the need for negotiations with county officials concerning future maintenance or reconstruction. It was emphasized that a clear agreement with the county is necessary to ensure the city is not saddled with undue financial burdens once it assumes jurisdiction over the road.

17:39Attention was also directed towards the city’s alleys, particularly those with gravel surfaces. Some members noted that while improvements have been made to residential alleys, others have been neglected, especially those near St. ANS. There was a consensus that these should be included in future maintenance plans, prompting further discussions on how alleys could be better integrated into the city’s broader infrastructure strategy.

Shifting focus, the council approved the final payment of $3,638 for a completed project. Additionally, they ratified a joint powers agreement for the police department with the South Central Minnesota Computer Consortium, which has an annual cost of $3,200, already accounted for in the budget.

In other business, the council deliberated on a request from the Fire Department Relief Association for a $200 increase in retirement benefits, bringing them from $2,200 to $2,400. It was noted that there had been no increase in two years, and the proposed amount aligns with past practices. The motion passed with one abstention, reflecting support for the firefighters serving the community.

The council also addressed routine matters, such as the annual liability waiver, which involves approving liability coverage and waiving boiler coverage at the power plant. This too passed unanimously. A resolution for filing consent assessments with the county regarding sanitary sewer work was presented and approved.

In terms of new business, a $2,000 donation to the disc golf fund was accepted, originating from charitable gambling associated with local organizations. Concerns were raised regarding the lack of a specific park fund in the city’s budget and the need for the park board to determine how to best utilize the donation for future maintenance and capital improvements.